Oral Cancer Awareness Month
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to assess your risk and get screened. Although oral cancer affects thousands of people in the US every year, a diagnosis does not have to ruin your life. Your dentist is a powerful ally who can help you reduce your risk and detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
What is Oral Cancer?
Any type of cancer that appears inside your mouth or throat or on your lips is considered oral cancer. It may start as a lesion that won’t heal, reddish or white patches inside your mouth, an abnormal growth, chronic hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing. If you notice anything troubling in or around your mouth, contact your dentist or primary care doctor immediately to get screened for oral cancer.
Who is at Risk?
Unfortunately, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer, including:
- Smoking, vaping, and using any form of tobacco,
- Unprotected sun exposure and tanning bed use,
- Human papillomavirus infection,
- Family history or genetic predisposition.
Men are at higher risk than women, and the risk for everyone increases with age, with an average diagnosis age range in the mid-60s.
Get Screened at Your 6-month Dental Checkup
Your dentist knows how to recognize the signs of oral cancer. An oral cancer screening is part of the standard procedure when you come in for your semiannual cleaning and examination. If your dentist notices anything abnormal, they will refer you to a specialist for further testing. The goal is to catch any precancerous or cancerous lesions early and get them treated before they can become a serious threat to your health.
At your next dental appointment, ask us about an oral cancer screening, especially if you have concerns about your oral health. We also encourage you to spread the word about the importance of regular screenings this month. For more information and to schedule your next appointment, contact our office located in Chesterfield, MI. We are here to help you stay healthy!
